The inspiring sounds of "Pomp and Circumstance" welcomed teachers, administrators, family and guests to the Cedarcrest High School auditorium for the graduation ceremony of students from the PARADE – Parents and Riverview Actively Delivering Education and the CLIP – Contracted Learning Individualized Program. This was the ninth commencement ceremony for these two extraordinary Riverview educational programs.

Each of these programs offers a unique educational plan for their students. The flexible hours of CLIP allow students to have jobs and attend other programs while completing their high school requirements, while PARADE permits students to receive an at home school education in partnership with classroom/instructor hours.

Riverview Assistant Superintendent and CLIP Principal Dr. Anthony Smith was in attendance to welcome the guests and introduce the administrators of both programs along with acknowledgement to the PARADE Program Director Paul Censullo.

Graduates from each of the programs addressed the audience to share of their appreciation and gratitude for the educational opportunities made available to them through these two vital Riverview programs.

CLIP graduate Marina Parker spoke of her educational experience in a speech entitled, "Looking at Tomorrow."

Marina expressed her deep appreciation for the CLIP program opportunity and to teachers Mrs. Malm and Ms. Baughn for their constant encouragement and their compassionate guidance. She explained the difference that these alternative educational programs had made to her, and shared that, "what matters most is not where students learn, but what they learn and who they become" because of their education.

PARADE graduates Carissa Steinborn and Kaleb White spoke of their experiences in the PARADE program sharing, "PARADE has given us the opportunity to embrace who we are as individuals... and has taught us lessons that go beyond textbooks or curriculum."

They expressed their gratitude to all of their teachers with special recognition to Mrs. Marshall and Mrs. Gould. The students closed with a heartfelt quote from Harriet Tubman...

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer... Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience and the passion to reach for the stars; to change the world."